By: Bishop Dr. Etta Mhoon-Walker, Ph.D., D. Div.
Tuesday Devotion and Prayer. April 25, 2023
“Godly Wisdom”“If any of you lack wisdom, let him ask of God, that giveth to all men liberally, and upbraideth not; and it shall be given him.” (James 1:5)
We receive wisdom through the Word of God and the counsel of godly mentors and friends. God’s wisdom isn’t anything like what the world offers us; ultimately, it is full of peace and brings about good fruit. James wrote, “But the wisdom that is from above is first pure, then peaceable, gentle, and easy to be intreated, full of mercy and good fruits, without partiality, and without hypocrisy.” (James 3:17)
When we approach God with humility asking Him for guidance and direction, He is faithful to give us wisdom from above. We have been given the gift of leaders in the church to help us understand and apply the wisdom in God’s Word. Church leaders are charged to care for our souls, help us through difficult times, and equip and encourage us. Do you fall into the ditch of pride, thinking you have it all figured out? Are you unteachable? Often, when we face challenges, the Lord is using the situation to sanctify, humble, and build our trust in Him. When we humble ourselves before the Lord, He gives us the grace which strengthens us in our trials and difficult seasons. Grace is always available to the humble (1 Peter 5:5). In a culture (yes, even within the visible church) where positive affirmations and self-empowered declarations are the norms, admitting weakness, limitedness, and failure is seen as negative and perhaps even harmful to your soul.
The Bible reveals that we are not enough in and of ourselves, our abilities, or wisdom; we are dust (Psalm 103:14-16). The Lord is the One who gives us the breath, ability, and wisdom to accomplish anything, walk through a difficult situation, or make major life decisions. Admitting our “not enoughness” provides an opportunity to look to God because He is more than enough and His grace is sufficient (2 Corinthians 12). Ultimately, the Lord is glorified in my weakness and my feeling of emptiness and “not enoughness.” When we have reached our limit and don’t know where to turn, let us run to the One who holds all wisdom and grace!
Heavenly Father,
I am weighed down with the cares of this life. I run to You in humility knowing I do not have the answers for everything I am facing, but I know You do. I trust that Your Word tells me if I lack wisdom I can come to You and ask for it. You are such a faithful and generous Father, and Your abundant wisdom is what I need when I don’t know where to turn. I trust You will guide me and strengthen me with Your grace when I am overwhelmed. Thank You for placing godly leaders in my life to help me when I’m faced with difficult decisions. I trust You, equip them to care for my soul, and teach me more about You and Your ways. I repent for worrying; help me trust You more as I learn to walk in Your perfect wisdom. In Your son Jesus’ name, I pray, Amen.
